A PATHOLOGICAL liar can confuse a person by his temperament when he speaks, leaving him wondering if what he is saying is true.
Over the course of their lives, pathological liars tell an average of about 10 lies a day, breaking their ties with those around them.
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What is a pathological liar?
A study of pathological liars focused on 623 people and found that about 13 percent of people are pathological liars.
The term was coined in 1891 by psychiatrist Anton Delbrück to describe someone who told so many lies that it could be considered pathological.
A person who is considered a pathological liar will generally go beyond a normal exaggeration to lie to manipulate or deceive others.
The difference between lying and being defined as a pathological liar is the person’s need to lie without a motive.
Generally, a lie is told for a reason that would benefit the individual, but a pathological liar will tell them for no reason at all.
The study was published in the Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice magazine and reported that the individuals were asked a series of questions while receiving a lie detector test.
They found that of the 13 percent, the majority told an average of ten lies a day, with some admitting telling lies for no reason, saying that sometimes they grew out of a first lie.
The study is one of the few done in the area and the cause of pathological lying is still unknown.
Researchers say they need to conduct additional tests and studies to find out the underlying reasons why someone develops into a pathological liar.
What are the characteristics of a pathological liar?
Pathological liars may seem no different from those who lie regularly, but there are some characteristics that set them apart.
Features include:
- Their lie seems to have no apparent advantage
- Their lies are usually dramatic, overly embellished, complicated and detailed
- They sometimes believe the lies they tell, sometimes they fall into the category of delusions
- They usually portray themselves as the hero or victim in the lies they tell
How do you deal with a pathological liar?
Pathological liars can be more frustrating for friends and family members because they have nothing to gain by telling their lies.
However, there are ways to respond to a pathological liar, including:
- Keeping your mood in check – It’s important to respond in a way that is firm but kind and supportive.
- Expect them to deny the lie – If confronted, the individual will likely deny the accusation and may be shocked or enraged.
- Remember the lie isn’t about you – It’s easy to take a pathological liar personally, but it’s important to remember that it can be caused by anxiety, low self-esteem or an underlying personality disorder, according to health line†
- Be supportive – Tell them you like them for who they are and tell them not to lie to you.
- Don’t lie – instead tell them you don’t want to continue the conversation while they’re being dishonest.
- Suggest they seek medical attention – This should be done with support and kindness, and tell them that you are genuinely concerned for their well-being.